From old to new

The existing Arenberg Institute consisted of interconnected buildings around a central courtyard, on a steep slope between two streets.

For STUK, two of the least usable wings of the complex were replaced by a new structure that housed the technically complex performance spaces.

All public spaces open onto an intimate central courtyard that functions as the heart of STUK. A system of outdoor spaces traverses the complex diagonally, creating a semi-public route from one street to another.

In contrast to the uniform and sober use of materials on the outside, STUK's interiors are diverse and exuberant. Each performance space has a strong character, with padded, black leather-covered walls, corroded steel slat walls or crates of unplaned wood.

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An Alice in Wonderland complex emerges, behind every door a new, mysterious world unfolds. The oiled concrete walls of the large theatre hall with their zigzag pattern resemble draped theatre curtains. The performance hall's stage overlooks the courtyard through a large window and becomes a projection screen or stage for the whole complex, connected to the outdoor space of improvised stages and stairs.

The city within the city as theatre comes alive again.

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Programma:

2 theaters voor dans en toneel, ensembletheaters
filmzaal
dansstudio
muziekstudio's
workshops
tentoonstellingsruimte
café-restaurant
kantoren

Onze architecten

From Team Architecture (private sector Antwerp, Limburg, Flemish Brabant and Brussels) (2)

prof. arch. Jan Moens

General Director
Head of Research & Development Department
Managing Director

E-mail |

ir. arch. Nadja Van Houten

Director
Administrator

E-mail |

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In 2023, the STUK received a sustainable and inclusive refresh.

Our future needs to be more sustainable and inclusive - that applies to every sector, including the arts. With the renovation of its infrastructure in 2023, STUK put its money where its mouth is.

Tell me!